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Abstract:

A movable greenhouse and track system may include a track configured to
be anchored to a first plot of farming land and a second plot of farming
land. The movable greenhouse and track system may further include a
greenhouse is capable of being anchored to the track and an anchoring
member. The greenhouse may include a series of hoops forming an interior
area; a member attached to the hoops for keeping the interior area of the
greenhouse a certain temperature different than a temperature from an
area exterior to the greenhouse; and a member for facilitating movement
of the greenhouse along the tunnel of the track. The interior area of the
greenhouse may include the first plot of farming land. After a
predetermined time, the member for facilitating movement allows the
greenhouse to be moved from the first plot of farming land to the second
plot of farming land.

Claims:

1. A movable agriculture building and track system comprising: a track
configured to be anchored to a first plot of farming land and a one or
more unique or overlapping plots of farming land, the track comprising of
two rails or more rail wherein the first plot and the additional plots
are to be disposed between the rails; a movable agriculture building
capable of being anchored to the track, the movable agriculture building
comprising: a series of hoops forming an interior area; a member attached
to the hoops for keeping the interior area of the building a certain
climate different than a climate from an area exterior to the building;
and a member for facilitating movement of the building along the track;
and an anchoring member for removably anchoring the series of hoops to
the track; wherein the interior area of the building includes the first
plot of farming land such that plants growing in the farming land are
exposed to conditions created by the building, and wherein, after a
predetermined time, the member for facilitating movement allows the
building to be moved from the first plot of farming land to next plot of
farming land.

2. A movable agriculture building and track system of claim 1, wherein
the anchoring member between the building and the track adds to the
bracing and structural integrity of the structure.

3. A movable agriculture building and track system of claim 1, wherein
the track integrated the connection of the member that controls the
climate of the structure with the integrated track and moving system.

4. A method for farming comprising: anchoring a track to a first plot of
farming land and a one or more unique or overlapping plots of farming
land, the track comprising two rails wherein the first plot and
additional plots are disposed between the rails, the track capable of;
anchoring a movable agriculture building to the track so that the
greenhouse is disposed over the first plot of farming land, the movable
agriculture building comprising: a series of hoops forming an interior
area; a member attached to the hoops for keeping the interior area of the
building a certain climate different than a climate or from an area
exterior to the building; and a moving member for facilitating movement
of the greenhouse along the tunnel of the track; after the greenhouse has
been disposed over the first plot for a predetermined time, de-anchoring
the greenhouse from the track and moving the greenhouse using the moving
member along the track until the greenhouse is disposed over the second
plot of farming land; and anchoring the greenhouse to the track so that
the greenhouse is disposed over the second plot of farming land.

5. A method of farming of claim 4, wherein the anchoring member between
the building and the track adds to the bracing and structural integrity
of the structure.

6. A method of farming of claim 4, wherein the track integrated the
connection of the member that controls the climate of the structure with
the integrated track and moving system.

Description:

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C.
§119(e) to the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No.
61/412,748, as filed on Nov. 11, 2010, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Agriculture structures are a key component to farmer's ability to
grow crop and raise animals, typically on a limited amount of space.
Movable agriculture buildings increase the flexibility and viability of
small-scale agriculture through extended the growing season and pasturing
animals.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Embodiments of this invention increases the economically viability
of small-scale agriculture including four season organic vegetable
production and grazing livestock by integrating the moving and anchoring
systems for movable agriculture structures.

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention relates to a movable
greenhouse and track system. The movable greenhouse and track system may
include a track configured to be anchored to a first plot of farming land
and a second plot of farming land. The movable greenhouse and track
system may further include a greenhouse is capable of being anchored to
the track and an anchoring member. The greenhouse may include a series of
hoops forming an interior area; a member attached to the hoops for
keeping the interior area of the greenhouse a certain temperature
different than a temperature from an area exterior to the greenhouse; and
a member for facilitating movement of the greenhouse along the tunnel of
the track. The interior area of the greenhouse may include the first plot
of farming land. After a predetermined time, the member for facilitating
movement allows the greenhouse to be moved from the first plot of farming
land to the second plot of farming land.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Error! Reference source not found. is a diagram of the front view
of the invention 101 according to some embodiments.

[0006] Error! Reference source not found. shows both sides of the
structure 101 according to some embodiments.

[0007] Error! Reference source not found. shows the structure 101 attached
to in a first position location 105 according to some embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 4 shows an end view of the sidewall hoop 112 with attached
roller sitting on the anchored track and baseboard 164 according to some
embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 5 shows another iteration of the structure sitting on a track
122 that has been set with a concrete foundation 120 according to some
embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 6 show that the track anchors 136 can be situated in multiple
ways, in this specific example they are facing away from themselves,
according to some embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 7 shows the track being anchored to the concrete foundation
120 according to some embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 8 shows the track being anchored on to the concrete foundation
in such a way where the track is elevated off the ground according to
some embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 9 show the profile of the structure and a method of anchoring
the structure to the track according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 10 shows the profile of the structure and anchoring system
with a variation in which the structure is anchored directly to the track
with the use of a quick link 160 or shackle 161 according to some
embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 11 shows the profile of the structure and anchoring system
with a variation in which the wheel axle has a forged eyelet which allows
the structure to be anchored at each wheel point to the track directly
below according to some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 12 shows an alternate structure to track mounting approach
where the rail 121 is mounted to the bottom of all of the hoops 112 and
then sits on the rollers 129 mounted into the roller holder 131 according
to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how the track 122 and hoops 112 are
set across the width of the structure according to some embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 14a shows a profile of the original track design with a roller
to fit the track according to some embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 14b shows another profile of the track using a different
groove that would provide a greater surface area for the roller to sit
according to some embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 14c shows another possible track iteration.

[0021] FIG. 14d shows another possible track iteration.

[0022] FIG. 14e shows another possible track iteration.

[0023] FIG. 14f shows another possible track iteration.

[0024] FIG. 14g shows another possible track iteration.

[0025] FIG. 14h shows another possible track iteration.

[0026] Error! Reference source not found.a-b show implementations of how
the V-track can be installed to anchor the track to the ground according
to embodiments.

[0027] FIGS. 16a-d show implementations of the track according to
embodiments.

[0028] FIGS. 17a-b shows track designs according to embodiments

[0029] FIG. 18 shows a diagram of a single v-track section and a single
v-track connector according to some embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 19 shows a side view of the track pieces, connectors, track
anchors the anchor eyes (or anchor points where to the structure is
anchored to the track), and the track anchors according to embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 20 shows the relative location of the anchor points to the
hoops of the structure.

[0032] FIGS. 21a-b show how the structure can be anchored to the track
according to embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 22 shows another anchoring implementation working directly
with the roller when a track sits on a permanent foundation according to
embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 23 shows how the structure is anchored to the track.

[0035] FIG. 24 represents an anchoring implementation in which the anchor
eyes in the track are not set in between consecutive hoops according to
embodiments.

[0036] FIG. 25 shows anchoring in which the location of specific anchoring
components is changed. In this example the turnbuckles are located at the
tops of the anchoring system according to embodiments.

[0037] FIGS. 26a-c is a reference chart showing the various configurations
for the V-track based on the size of the structure and the number of
position.

[0038] FIGS. 27a-g show the anchoring system end according to embodiments.

[0039] FIGS. 28a-b shows how material can be secured to the attachment
channel according to embodiments.

[0040] FIG. 29 shows a sample 3-position movable greenhouse rotation.

[0041] FIG. 30 shows an example in which 6 positions of track have been
put together and two structures share those 6 locations on the same set
of tracks according to embodiments.

[0042] FIG. 31 shows a sample movable greenhouse rotation in which 4 plots
are used. In non moving structures crops are often limited to the single
long season warm crop.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] Embodiments of this invention relate to movable agriculture
buildings 101 that slide back and forth along a track or rails 122. A
track or rail is anchored to the ground, pad, concrete, or footers. This
track is anchored to the ground 119 or concrete 120 and the structure 101
is secured to the track 122. When the structure 101 needs to be moved,
the structure 101 in unsecured from the track 122, moved to a new
location 102 and then secured to the track 112. The entire structure 101
could be moved to a new position 102, or only moved for part of the
length of the structure 101.

[0044] The present disclosure is discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-31.
Before continuing with the application, a general overview of some of
each of these Figures is presented below followed by a further
description of these Figures.

[0045] Error! Reference source not found. is a diagram of the front view
of the invention 101 according to some embodiments. The track 122 is
secured to the ground 119. The roller 129 rests on the track. There is a
hole in the sidewall hoop for a forged eye-bolt. A cable with a
turn-buckle 133 connects the anchored track 136 to the structure 101. The
structure is able to move to an alternate location 102, therefore
anchoring the structure to the previously anchored track 102.

[0046] Error! Reference source not found. shows both sides of the
structure 101 according to some embodiments. Here the rollers are on the
inside; however rollers are locatable on either side of the sidewall
hoops. Both sides of the track 122 are anchored 136 and both sides of the
structure are anchored to the track.

[0047] Error! Reference source not found. shows the structure 101 attached
to in a first position location 105 according to some embodiments. In
this example the structure has been moved by a tractor 168 from its
second position 106 where crops 103 were growing underneath the cover of
the movable structure 101 in the ground 119. This could be the structure
being moved between any number of locations.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows an end view of the sidewall hoop 112 with attached
roller sitting on the anchored track and baseboard 164 according to some
embodiments. The anchor hole 138 in the hoop is where the forged eye bolt
for the anchoring mechanism is located. The roller is attached to the
sidewall hoop using a roller axle 130. The baseboard is attached to the
hoop using pipe straps 145. Located on the baseboard is also the
attachment channel 165 that receives the plastic covering from the top
and well as can hold material such as plastic or weed fabric 166 coming
up from the ground to seal the gap created by raising the hoops off the
ground.

[0049] FIG. 5 shows another iteration of the structure sitting on a track
122 that has been set with a concrete foundation 120 according to some
embodiments. Here the track acts like more of a rail for the structure to
sit on. This could be beneficial if working to set a movable structure on
uneven ground, at which point the track could be adjusted as set in the
concrete foundation.

[0050] FIG. 6 show that the track anchors 136 can be situated in multiple
ways, in this specific example they are facing away from themselves, as
opposed to that seen in FIG. 4 where they are situated to cross according
to some embodiments.

[0051] FIG. 7 shows the track being anchored to the concrete foundation
120 according to some embodiments. A concrete foundation could be set
along the length of the track with the intention of setting all of the
v-track sections 123 on the foundation. Another way this can be done is
to simply use the concrete foundation to act as v-track connectors 127
and the rest of the track resting on the ground.

[0052] FIG. 8 shows the track being anchored on to the concrete foundation
in such a way where the track is elevated off the ground according to
some embodiments. This could be used in such a way that is also a benefit
for those working with uneven ground where leveling would be a detriment
to the soil. Another application of this would be in an urban setting
where the structures are built on footers with the intention of filling
the space between the concrete foundation with soil to act as a raised
bed. This would be beneficial is working on ground that is rock or
concrete or if the soil was previously contaminated with something such
as heavy metals.

[0053] FIG. 9 show the profile of the structure and a method of anchoring
the structure to the track according to some embodiments. The sidewall
hoop has been set with a forged eye bolt 141 to secure the anchoring
mechanism to the hoop. The endwall hoop 113 on either end uses a brace
band 146 and brace band bolt 147 in place of the eye bolt. Hoops 2, 3,
and 4 114-116 from either end use the same eye bolt and securing
mechanism. Located on the track is also a forged anchor eye 142 located
in an anchor point 125 located in the track itself, which have been
pre-drilled and are located throughout the track to be able to allow for
efficient movement between multiple plots 105-110. A single track anchor
point in this example anchors consecutive hoops.

[0054] FIG. 10 shows the profile of the structure and anchoring system
with a variation in which the structure is anchored directly to the track
with the use of a quick link 160 or shackle 161 according to some
embodiments.

[0055] FIG. 11 shows the profile of the structure and anchoring system
with a variation in which the wheel axle has a forged eyelet which allows
the structure to be anchored at each wheel point to the track directly
below according to some embodiments.

[0056] FIG. 12 shows an alternate structure to track mounting approach
where the rail 121 is mounted to the bottom of all of the hoops 112 and
then sits on the rollers 129 mounted into the roller holder 131 according
to some embodiments.

[0057] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how the track 122 and hoops 112 are
set across the width of the structure according to some embodiments. In
this example the wheels are placed on the inside of the hoops; they can
just as easily be placed on the outside of the structure, which could
increase the amount of potential growing space under the structure.

[0058] FIG. 14a shows a profile of the original track design with a roller
to fit the track according to some embodiments.

[0059] FIG. 14b shows another profile of the track using a different
groove that would provide a greater surface area for the roller to sit
according to some embodiments.

[0060] FIGS. 14c-h show other possible track iterations.

[0061] Error! Reference source not found.a shows another implementation of
how the V-track can be installed to anchor the track to the ground.
Additional methods have been to use concrete footers to seam the track
instead of the track connectors or to use concrete slabs under the entire
length of the v-track and bolt the v-track to the slab.

[0062] Error! Reference source not found.b shows another implementation of
how the V-track can be installed to anchor the track to the ground.

[0063] FIG. 16a shows another implementation of the track set in a soil
foundation and the way in which that track can be altered to shift the
method of anchoring the track to the ground.

[0064] FIG. 16b shows another implementation of the track set in a soil
foundation and the ways in which that track can be altered.

[0065] FIG. 16c shows another implementation of the track set in a
concrete foundation and the way in which that track can be altered to
shift the method of anchoring the track to the ground.

[0066] FIG. 16d shows another implementation of the track set in a
concrete foundation and the ways in which that track can be altered.

[0067] FIG. 17b shows the same track design as FIG. 17a, however a motor
169 has been added. This is shown to highlight the various embodiments of
this concept. This would be applicable in many situations, an example of
which would be to automate movement when a specific weather incident
presents. For example, if a crop is being tested for drought tolerance.
The crop could be exposed to an outdoor environment and when it begins to
rain a sensor could automate the movement of the structure to cover the
crop that is being tested for drought tolerance to continue the research
in a place that doesn't actually suffer from drought.

[0068] FIG. 18 shows a diagram of a single v-track section 123 and a
single v-track connector 124 according to some embodiments. The v-track
section has been prepared with holes 137 for the t-bar anchors 134. At
either end of each track section are v-track connector holes 127 that are
set to connect track sections together. The track connectors are placed
on the underside of each section of track so as to allow uninhibited
movement of the structure from section to section.

[0069] FIG. 19 shows a side view of the track pieces, connectors, track
anchors the anchor eyes (or anchor points where to the structure is
anchored to the track), and the track anchors. Supplemental earth augers
135 are used for additional anchoring. These earth augers can be used to
provide additional anchoring to the track and/or to the structure.

[0070] FIG. 20 shows the relative location of the anchor points to the
hoops of the structure. Although the anchor point can secure to the
bottom of each hoop, placing the anchor point in the center of the hoops
142 allows one anchor point to be secured to two hoops and allows the
cable used for anchoring to also provide diagonal bracing in the
sidewalls of the structure. The V-track is designed for the seams and
overlaps to correspond with the hoop spacing. When anchor points land on
a track seam, a track connector bolts is replaced with a forged anchor
eye.

[0071] FIG. 21a shows how the structure can be anchored to the track.
There are many implementation of this design. As shown, a forged eye-bolt
is installed in the sidewall hoop and a forged anchor eye is installed in
the track.

[0072] FIG. 21b shows another implementation in which structure is
similarly anchored as in FIG. 21a although in this setting directly to
the track or foundation without eyebolts.

[0073] FIG. 22 shows another anchoring implementation working directly
with the roller when a track sits on a permanent foundation. The hinged
anchor has the ability to rotate and lock into the foundation and
therefore holding the structure in a set location.

[0074] FIG. 23 shows how the structure is anchored to the track. There are
many implementation of this design. As shown, the connector 150, a forged
eye-bolt is installed in the sidewall hoop and a forged anchor eye is
installed in the track. The two are connected with a wire 151, wire
thimbles 154, wire clamps 155, quick links 160, and turn-buckles 161. The
turn-buckles are tight when anchored and are loosened when unanchored and
the structure is moved. The anchor eyes stay bolted to the track, and the
rest of the hardware moves with the structure. In the next position the
anchor eyes are already installed in the correct location and the
hardware can easily be reattached.

[0075] FIG. 24 represents an anchoring implementation in which the anchor
eyes in the track are not set in between consecutive hoops. Another
points in the track can be located anywhere on the track, in between
hoops, at hoops, and between sets of hoops.

[0076] FIG. 25 shows anchoring in which the location of specific anchoring
components is changed. In this example the turnbuckles are located at the
tops of the anchoring system.

[0077] FIG. 26a is a reference chart showing the various configurations
for the V-track based on the size of the structure and the number of
position. This chart ensures that the anchor points are installed
correctly for each position and that the track anchoring aligns with the
structure at each location. This highlights how the track spacing and
layout interacts with the structure and the hoop spacing. It also shows
how the anchor points are installed for all positions in the beginning.

[0078] FIG. 26b is a reference chart showing the various configurations
for the V-track based on the size of the structure and the number of
position. This chart ensures that the anchor points are installed
correctly for each position and that the track anchoring aligns with the
structure at each location. This highlights how the track spacing and
layout interacts with the structure and the hoop spacing. It also shows
how the anchor points are installed for all positions in the beginning.

[0079] FIG. 26c is a reference chart showing the various configurations
for the V-track based on the size of the structure and the number of
position. This chart ensures that the anchor points are installed
correctly for each position and that the track anchoring aligns with the
structure at each location. This highlights how the track spacing and
layout interacts with the structure and the hoop spacing. It also shows
how the anchor points are installed for all positions in the beginning.

[0080] FIG. 27a shows the anchoring system end with wire thimble, wire
clamps, and wire.

[0082] FIG. 27c represents quick links used to secure anchor system to eye
bolts in the track.

[0083] FIG. 27d represents an alternate to the quick link.

[0084] FIG. 27e represents a brace band that is used in place of eye bolts
in the sidewall hoops on the endwall locations.

[0085] FIG. 27f represents an alternative to FIG. 27a.

[0086] FIG. 27g represents a yolk to yolk turnbuckle used on the exterior
anchoring system of the structure. These are used in conjunction with
earth augers and forged-eye bolts on the bottom of the sidewall hoops.

[0087] FIG. 28a shows how material can be secured to the attachment
channel from the top of the structure and from the bottom of the
structure. Plastic covering the structure is commonly brought down from
the top. On the bottom of the structure the track can actually be used as
an anchor for something like weed fabric for weed prevention, but also as
a means to seal the gap from the ground to the baseboard.

[0088] FIG. 28b shows how the attachment channel could actually be located
in the track to create the same seal as in FIG. 28a.

[0089] FIG. 29 shows a sample 3-position movable greenhouse rotation. A
typical stationary tunnel would only be used for tomatoes. This rotation
uses the building for carrots, tomatoes, spinach, and leeks.

[0090] FIG. 30 shows an example in which 6 positions 105-110 of track have
been put together and two structures share those 6 locations on the same
set of tracks.

[0091] FIG. 31 shows a sample movable greenhouse rotation in which 4 plots
are used. In non moving structures crops are often limited to the single
long season warm crop.

[0092] The anchoring system, in addition to securing the structure 101,
also provides significant additional bracing and structural support for
the structure 101. The anchoring secures each hoop 112 on the structure,
bracing of the structure, the roller 129, or roller axle 130, bracing the
structure from forces directed in multiple directions, and enhances its
ability to counter adverse weather incidents. This integrated moving and
anchoring system increases flexibility, saves time and money, therefore
increasing the economic viability of small-scale agriculture.

[0093] Crops 103 and animals are moved and rotated through fields using
movable buildings 101. The movable buildings 101 add increased
flexibility, increased ability to grow crops 103 and/or raise animals in
both conventional agriculture systems as well as in natural, organic, and
sustainable systems.

[0094] Movable buildings 101 for agriculture include, but are not limited
to, movable greenhouses for season extension and environmental control of
perennial and annual crops, movable hoop coops for grazing or
over-wintering animals, movable structures for holding compost and
allowing the continuation of the composting process by moving the
structure with piles as they are turned, movable sod houses for growing
and maintaining grass outside of the conventional outdoor growing season,
movable buildings for aqua-agriculture, such as moving over fish ponds or
hatchery to maintain water temperature and add thermal mass to the
system, and also movable buildings for shading or shelter for use with
providing shade for mushroom cultivation, animals in the heat or even to
warm a patio, vegetable/animal washing or processing area, or even a
swimming pool.

[0095] Movable greenhouses 101 help growers by mitigating the problems
associated with stationary greenhouses, relating to soil, pests, and crop
rotations and timing. Movable greenhouse technology is a crucial
component of maximizing the economic viability of diversified farms while
also improving farm efficiency, increasing food security, and simply
providing more delicious locally grown food through the year.

[0101] Eliminate Greenhouse Cooling: Eliminate the expense of cooling the
greenhouse when planning for fall/winter harvestable crops. While summer
crops are in the greenhouse growers can sow outdoors in the field where
the greenhouse will move.

[0103] Extend Market Availability: Many of the crops are harvestable up to
five weeks earlier and/or five weeks later than crops without greenhouse
protection, thus extending the length of the marketable season by as much
as 21/2 months.

[0106] Full-time or Part-time Containment: Animals can be fully contained
and moved with the structure or allowed to graze outside of the building

[0107] Security: Having the animals inside of the structure increases
security against aerial & ground predators

[0108] Overwintering: These structures have the ability to be used the
field during growing months and then moved to a location for
overwintering animals in a protected environment the remainder of the
year.

[0109] Mitigate Hot and Cold Temperatures: during extreme temperatures,
movable buildings can be used to make ground available that would
otherwise not be available. Example: Heat generated from chickens in a
movable hoop coop in winter can be enough to keep ground thawed. In
addition, with water and moisture created by animals, dry ground can be
kept moist enough for agricultural purposes even in drought.

[0110] Additional Advantages of Movable Agriculture Buildings:

[0111] Low Initial Investment: When used properly, movable buildings can
have a faster return on investment than stationary buildings and still
have a low initial investment.

[0112] Flexible Purposes: A movable agriculture building can have several
uses throughout the year. It could be used for sheep in the early spring
to bring them outdoors earlier than they could if they were just
outdoors. When the sheep can go outdoors without a protected structure,
the building could then be used for vegetables. A building could also be
used for recreation part of the year and vegetables the rest. For
example, it could cover a swimming pool in the spring and fall and
vegetables the rest of the year.

[0113] Equipment Moves with the Structure: Overhead irrigation, renewable
energy systems (solar thermal, photovoltaic panels, or wind generators),
roosts, feeders, and waterers, can all be installed to move with the
structure.

[0114] Easy to Expand the Length of a Movable Building: Significant
expense is occurred in materials associated with endwalls. To increase
the size of a movable buildings can "stretch" by separating the building
in the middle and adding 12' modules to increase the length in the middle
without having to rebuild the endwalls. Example: Stretching a 48' L
movable high tunnel to a 96' L high tunnel would consist of splitting the
structure in the middle and adding four 12' modules to make up the new
length.

[0115] Flexibility during Construction: Because the building is movable,
the building site does not have to be the same as the first use site. For
example, a plot can be planted in position 1 and the building can be
constructed in position 2. Upon completion, the building can be moved to
position 1, without disturbing the crops that are already in the ground.

[0116] The terms "Greenhouse", "High Tunnel", and "Hoop House" areused
interchangeably in this document, diagrams, and attachments. The terms
"Movable Agriculture Buildings for Animals" and "Hoop Coops" are used
interchangeably in this document, diagrams, and attachments. None of the
diagrams, drawings, or figures are to scale.

[0117] The anchoring system provides additional bracing and structural
support for the structure. This integrated moving and anchoring system
increases flexibility, saves time and money, therefore increasing the
economic viability of small-scale agriculture.

[0118] FIG. 4 shows the cross-section of one type of track 122 and roller
129 that can serve this function. The term V-track refers to the V-grove
in the roller 129 and the upside-down V-profile of the track 122. This
track is formed with a break, although it could also be welded or
extruded. The track and roller profile do not need to be a V-shape. A
round track 122 with flanges, pegs, or feet can be secured to the ground
119 and a pipe roller 129 could be used. The track 122 could be a
channel, square, curved, triangular, etc. with a compatible roller. The
roller 129 can spin about its axis or can slide or glide along a track
122 or railing. Multiple rollers 129 can be used as shown in FIGS. 17a
and 17b. The track itself can have wheels, casters or rollers and the
structure can move along those rollers as shown in FIG. 12. The track 122
can be a rail and the structure can have a rail that slide with respect
to each other. The friction between sliding members can be used to help
anchor the structure and keep it from moving.

[0119] There are many ways that the track 122 can be anchored to the
ground 119. It can be staked in place or set in concrete or a foundation
120. The track or rail 122 can be anchored by earth augers 135. The track
or rail 122 can be bolted to concrete, rock, or a footer 120. The track
or rail 122 can also be secured or anchored to an object that is already
anchored. Rings or flanges could be welded or fabricated into a track or
rail 122 to allow for anchoring. For example, a welded ring could be
welded to a track so that a t-post can be driven through the ring,
anchoring the track. There are various methods for securing the track to
the ground.

[0120] FIGS. 23, 24, 25, 26a, 26b, and 26c show strategies for anchoring
the structure 101 to the track 122. In these scenarios, the anchoring
strategy maximizes the number of the structure's hoops 112 that are
secured to the track 122. Structures 101 with odd numbers of hoops 112
can easily be anchored to all but one hoop 112 on each side. This hoop
112 could also be anchored down using two exterior anchor points 125
using earth augers 135 as shown in FIG. 26c. Structures 101 with an even
number hoops 112 will have each hoop 112 secured to an anchor point 125
on the track 122. This design aligns the anchor points 125 with the
center of the hoop spacing. This ensures that each track anchor point 125
is located in between two hoops 112 in order to anchor as many hoops 112
to the track 122 as possible.

[0121] The anchor points 125 do not need to be centered in the hoops 112.
An anchor point could be centered below hoop #2 114 and secured to hoop
#2 114. Or the anchor point below hoop #2 114 could be secured to hoop #1
113 and hoop #3 115 (and potentially hoop #2 114 as well). Table 1 (shown
below) is a reference chart showing one design, this is also shown in
FIG. 20. In this embodiment, the anchor points 125 are installed in the
beginning for each location of the structure 101. The anchor points 125
are always in between two hoops 112. The track length is twice the hoop
spacing and starts half of the hoop spacing before the structure 101. In
this example the hoop spacing is 6 ft and the track extends past each end
by 3 ft. This ensures that the same track pieces can be used on both
sides (right and left track sections are the same). The track seams may
end up at an anchor point 125, than the forged anchor eye 142 on the
track 112 replaces one of the tract connector bolts. For the 3-position
30 ft×48 ft structure, this will not occur at the first or second
anchor point 125 (6 ft and 18 ft from the end respectively), but will
occur for the third anchor point 125 at 36 ft. FIG. 20 shows the anchor
point locations with respect to the track 122 and the structure 101.

[0122] The design highlighted in FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG. 21a, FIG.
21b, FIG. 23, FIG. 24, FIG. 25 has the structure anchored to the track
anchor point 125 with steel cable or wire 151. FIGS. 23, 23, and 25 show
the cables 151 secured to the hoops 112 of the structure 101
approximately 3 ft from the ground 119 and attaches to a forged eye-bolt
141 going through the hoop 112 of the structure 101.

[0123] In this iteration, the cable is secured to the forged eye-bolts 141
that pass through the hoops 112 with a wire thimble 154 and wire clamps
155. The hoops 112 at the endwalls 113 do not use a forged eye-bolt 141
so that the threads do not extend past the endwall. Although a forged
eye-bolt 141 could be used, a brace band 146 is substituted as shown in
FIG. 23. Brace bands 146 could be used everywhere where the cable
anchoring secures to the structure. Other hardware can also be used, for
example double-brace bands, shackles 161, etc.

[0124] The cable 151 is secured to the track anchor eye 142 with a quick
link 160, a turn-buckle 158, a wire thimble 154, and wire clamps 155. A
compression sleeve could easily be substituted wherever the wire thimble
154 and clamp 155 are used. The quick link 160 is easy to install and can
easily be removed when the structure is unanchored and moved. The
turn-buckle 158 tightens the anchoring cable 151 and can be loosened when
the quick link 160 needs to be removed. This assembly is shown in FIG.
27a and FIG. 27f. Other flexible items can be used instead of wire/cable
151, chain for example. Rigid members or bars can also be used. These
items can be tensioned with threads, turn-buckles 158, chain binders,
draw latches, cumalong, tension clips, webbing, knots or clasps. The
cable 151 (or cable substitute) can anchor to one or multiple points 125
on the structure 101. The anchoring could be at or between the hoops of a
structure as shown in FIG. 24. The structure 101 can be anchored to the
bottom of the hoops 112, higher up the hoops 112, or to any of the
structure's other bracing or components. The rollers 129 or axles 130
themselves can be anchored to the track 122, rail, or ground 119. For
example, the roller axle 130 could be a forged eye-bolt 141 and the eye
could be anchored to the track 122, rail or ground 119 as shown in FIG.
11. FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b shows an alternative roller concept where a
second roller 129 is used to secure the structure to the track 122. In
this case the track 122 or rail fits in between the rollers 129. The
structure 101 is secured to the rail 122 with two rollers 129. A bolt,
pin, or other device can be used to prohibit the structure 101 or rollers
129 from moving.

[0125] The roller 129 could fit inside of the track prohibiting the tunnel
in one direction (ex: up/down) but still need to be anchored in another
direction (ex: front/back). A channel track 122 can be anchored and
rollers 129 or sliding objects can fit inside the channel. To stop the
structure from rolling bolts or pegs could be installed on either side of
the roller to prohibit movement, a similar implementation to FIG. 22.

[0126] A device could rotate up from the track (or down from the
structure) to secure, the two elements together, FIG. 22. The structure
could be held in place with magnetic forces. For example, electro-magnets
or physical magnets could be used to keep the structure anchored in
place. Magnetic force can be used to move the structure 101 along a track
122 or rail (similar to trains on magnetic rails). The track 122 could be
fabricated so that pins or through bolts can be installed to lock the
track 122 and structure together.

[0127] The track 122 is designed for multiple track 122 pieces to seam
together. This ties the track 122 and anchoring together. An alternative
design could have track sections 123 that are not seamed together with
track connectors 124. Instead each track 122 section could be secured by
itself. One example of this could be a concrete footer 120 installed
below each track seam. The end of each track 122 could then secure to one
side of the footer. This would allow for uninterrupted motion of the
roller 129 over the track 122, without actually seaming the track
sections 123 together. FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 show one design for seaming
track sections 123 together. Again, the track connector bolts can be
replaced for forged anchor eyes 142 for an anchor point 125 at that
location. The holes for the track connector bolts are slotted so that a
carriage bolt can be used, eliminating the need for two wrenches/sockets
during installation.

[0128] Track sections 123 can move with the structure 101. The structure
101 could be anchored to one track position. When moved, a second track
position (full or partial) could be installed so that structure 101 can
move. The old track 122 that is no longer can be moved (or leap frogged)
ahead so the structure 101 can be moved further. Using this method one
track section (or one full position of track) can be repeatedly moved and
the structure can transpose indefinitely along its length.

[0129] FIG. 18 is a top view of the V-track and its various holes and
their purpose. The four holes on each end are for the track connector
bolts or a forged anchor eye 142 if an anchor point 125 lands on a track
seam. The hole in the center is for an anchor point 125 if needed. The
four larger holes are for the track anchors 136. These anchor holes are
large enough to install the track anchors 136 at an angle. The V-track
connectors 124 have eight holes that line up with the track connector
holes. All of the track connecting holes are slotted for ease of
assembly. The slots on the track run a perpendicular direction to the
slots on the connectors. This gives the user some play when installing
the track.

[0130] Supplemental anchors may be used or required when the tunnel is
left in place or during severe weather. Earth augers 135 are shown in
FIG. 26a, FIG. 26b, and FIG. 26c for that purpose. These anchors can help
secure the track 122 and/or structure 101. Anchor points 125 can be on
the inside and outside of the center of the track. In some applications
you might want it on the inside on one side and the outside on the other.
This may be relevant in situations where a predominant wind comes from
the same direction.